Joann Gardner

JoAnn Wood Gardner, 76, of Aurora, Colorado, passed away July 19, 2020, following a lengthy battle with cancer. Born on June 21, 1944, she was the daughter of Judge John F. Wood and Josephine Bennett Wood of Owensboro, Kentucky. JoAnn was born and grew up in Owensboro. After graduating from Owensboro Senior High School she attended the University of Kentucky for her pre med studies. She was a member of Delta Zeta Sorority while attending the University of Kentucky. She then attended the Medical College of Virginia where she received a Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy. In 1989 she received Master of Arts degrees in both Business Administration and in Health Services Management from Webster University. Her career took her from direct patient care, ergonomic consultation and corporate rehabilitation directorship. Throughout her lifetime, reading, UK basketball, and traveling were JoAnn's passions. She visited and stayed in 77 countries during her travels around the world.

JoAnn first introduced her children to traveling abroad in 1993 when they went to the Cayman Islands as part of a Caribbean cruise. They all loved it so much, that JoAnn later purchased shares in a timeshare on the island. JoAnn's love of travel has been passed down to both of her children. Lesa and her family have traveled with JoAnn on multiple trips and will continue their pursuit of traveling to new and exciting destinations. James and Tess have also traveled abroad and intend on furthering their world travels as well.

JoAnn is survived by her daughter Lesa Schmad and Robert Schmad of Aurora, Colorado; her son James M. Gardner III and Tess Wilson of Denver, Colorado; Gavin Schmad, grandson; and Lisa V. Wood, sister-in-law, and Elizabeth Wood Goss, niece, of Lexington, Kentucky.

JoAnn will be cremated. Due to current pandemic conditions there is no plan for a service at this time.